Madikeri, 11 June

Heavy rains and fog in Kodagu have triggered panic among residents residing in hilly areas, with the looming threat of landslides and floods casting a shadow. Concerns extend to layouts in Madikeri too, where several neighbourhoods are considered prone to landslides.

Areas such as Indira Nagar, Chamundeshwari Nagar, Mangaladevi Nagar, Putani Nagar, Jyoti Nagar, and Thyagaraja Colony are identified as high-risk zones. The district disaster management team and administration, taking these concerns seriously, convened a meeting and directed the Madikeri Municipal Council to initiate precautionary measures.

Estimates suggest over 300 houses in these areas could be impacted by landslides. The situation is particularly worrisome for families who have already borne the brunt of previous landslides in Chamundeshwari Nagar and Indira Nagar since 2018. While some have been relocated to Karnangeri, K Nidugane, and Jambur, anxieties remain high for residents in Mangala Devi and Chamundeshwari Nagar. Municipal authorities have verbally informed 300 families across various layouts that evacuation might be necessary if the downpour intensifies. Written notices for mandatory evacuation will follow if heavy rains persist as predicted.

Madikeri Municipal Commissioner Vijaya assured residents of assistance with evacuation, including transportation facilities if needed. However, residents like Julekabi from Chamundeshwari Nagar expressed disenchantment with past experiences of empty assurances during monsoons. Their demands go beyond temporary support; they seek permanent safe housing solutions for all families residing in high-risk layouts across Madikeri. Salar News